A recent International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plans survey shows that while employers are open to covering GLP-1 drugs for diabetes, they’re far more hesitant to do so for weight loss. Over half of corporate and multiemployer/public plans cover GLP-1s for diabetes only, while roughly one-third in each group extend coverage to both diabetes and weight loss. Notably, zero percent of respondents cover GLP-1 drugs for weight loss alone.
The clear lack of coverage underscores ongoing concerns about the long-term costs and sustainability of using high-priced GLP-1s for weight management without solid evidence of lasting results. MedBen Rx clients follow a variety of approaches to address these concerns, aiming to balance clinical effectiveness with responsible plan spending.
Focusing on clinically guided lifestyle and nutrition programs, supplemented when appropriate with proven medical therapies, promotes long-term health while keeping spending in check. This helps plans achieve sustainable results for both members and employers.